Overview

• SpaceX’s 10th Starship test lifted off on August 26 from Starbase, Texas, deployed eight dummy satellites, reignited a Raptor in space, and executed planned splashdowns.
• The test did not achieve Earth orbit, a core requirement before Starship can support lunar or Mars missions.
• Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy said Flight 10 “paves the way” for the Starship Human Landing System intended for Artemis III in 2027.
• SpaceX and observers point to orbital insertion and large‑scale propellant transfer as the next decisive steps, with a Version 3 upper stage and Raptor 3 engines expected in upcoming tests and an in‑orbit refueling demo targeted by Elon Musk for next year.
• Experts told the South China Morning Post the progress strengthens U.S. prospects in the lunar competition with China but may not alone prevent Beijing from establishing the first moon base.